Vol. 58, Issue 1 Southwords

October 1, 2021

1111 S. Dee Road • Park Ridge, Illinois 60068

Vol. 58, No. 1

Welcomed with

OPEN WINGS

PHOTO BY MOLLY SHANAHAN

Hawks are back in the building and taking advantage of the new and improved ‘wings.’

See pages 8 and 9.

Say ‘Hello!’

Meet teachers and staff new to school this year.

Pages 2 & 3

Parking Problem Super Swans Editorial: the current parking pass system needs updating.

Page 6

The origin of the origami swans is revealed.

Page 10

Swing Away

Girls’ golf succeeds at their conference tournament.

Page 15

NEWS

| October 1, 2021

New staff join the school as in-person learning returns PHOTOS BY JAKE SNYDER, BETH KOSIOREK, ELIZABETH HANDLEY, & EDEN WENING

From left to right: Mr. Andy Burkemper, Mr. Ross Crane, Mr. Victor Fuentes, & Mr. Cheng Jin

Jake Snyder, Beth Kosiorek, & Elizabeth Handley News Editors

Mr. Andy Burkemper Mr. Burkemper joins the Fine Arts Department this year as a Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Marching Band, and Jazz Band teacher. Mr. Burkemper spends his free time golfing and spending time with family. “The best part of my job is the students and getting to know the band,” Mr. Burkemper said. “I am glad to be able to play and perform again. It’s great being able to rehearse together and not having to be individual anymore.”

Ms. Molly Canace

Ms. Canace joins Maine South as a new staff member in the Educational Life Skills Program (ELS). She is also a sponsor for Hawk Pals and the Special Olympics. Outside of school, Ms. Canace enjoys going out and finding new restaurants or cooking new recipes, as well as exploring the downtown area. She also enjoys being outside when she can be. “I’m really looking forward to being back in person and getting to know other students through Hawk Pals and advisory,” Ms. Canace said.

Mr. Ross Crane

Mr. Crane is a new addition to the World Languages Department.

He te aches French 3, French 3 Accelerated, French 5, and AP French. Mr. Crane hopes to soon be involved with Fine Arts productions extracurricularly. He also enjoys spending time with his four kids and playing music. He plays both the piano and the viola. “I am glad that the social aspect is back, being back in an office with coworkers, and interacting with other humans not through a screen,” Mr. Crane said.

Mr. Fuentes is a new staff member in the CTE department, teaching Intro to Engineering and Design classes, as well as Civil Engineering and Architecture classes. Additionally, Mr. Fuentes brings his love of video games to Maine South as the sponsor of the E-sports club. Outside of school, Mr. Fuentes is outdoors as much as he can be, whether it’s going downtown to the lake or hiking trails when the weather permits it. “I’d like to have students join my classes freshman year and leave senior year, having them for three or four years,” Mr. Fuentes said.

“One thing I’m excited for is having the community back and the sports Ms. Delehanty is a new French back in full.” teacher joining the World Languages Department this year. Ms. Delehanty teaches French 1, French 3, and French Ms. Jackson is a new addition in 4. She also runs Maine South’s French Club, and is involved in the French the SST Department and is a social National Honor Society. When she’s worker at Maine South, as well as a not teaching, Ms. Delehanty enjoys co-sponsor of the Anime Club. Ms. spending time with her dog, reading, Jackson likes to read, cook, bake, and eating at restaurants. “My favorite spend time with friends and family, part of my job is that it’s never boring,” and thrift. “The best part of my job Ms. Delehanty said. “I get to work is when you really feel as though you with smart people and my students have made a positive impact and always make me laugh. [Now that helped a student through a difficult we’re back in person] I’m looking time in their life,” Ms. Jackson said. forward to the personal connections “[Now that we’re in person,] I’m and better energy in the classroom.” excited to see people interact with one another and laugh together again.”

Ms. Emily Delehanty

From left to right: Ms. Molly Canace, Ms. Emily Delehanty, Ms. Leah Jackson, & Mr. Mike Jones.

2 SouthwordS

Mr. Victor Fuentes Mr. Cheng Jin

Ms. Leah Jackson

Mr. Jin also joins the math department as a new teacher this year. As a chess player himself, Mr. Jin plans to help out with Maine South’s Chess Club. Outside of school, Mr. Jin loves to travel and play sports. Mr. Jin is looking forward to getting to know students and staff and attending school events like basketball and football games as well as theatre productions. The best part of his job is getting to work with students and develop meaningful relationships.

“This year I’m looking forward to classroom interactions and being able to actually see my students’ faces,” Mr. Jin said.

Mr. Mike Jones

Mr. Jones is a new addition to the CTE department. He teaches Computer Programming, Intro to Business, and Financial Literacy, and coaches varsity football. He enjoys fishing and going to the gym in his free time. Mr. Jones is looking forward to teaching Financial Literacy as it is practical and important for students to learn. “The best part of my job is getting to interact with students on a daily basis and being an advocate for them,” Mr. Jones said. “I’m glad we’re now back in person for group work and cooperative learning.”

October 1, 2021

| NEWS

From left to right: Ms. Sarah Kirkorsky, Ms. Rongrong Lin, Mr. Nicholas Mugnolo, & Ms. Lucy Tapia.

Ms. Sarah Kirkorsky

Ms. Kirkorsky is a new 504 coordinator and school psychologist. When she’s not at Maine South, she works at Notre Dame College Prep once a week. The best part of her job is being able to work with students and figure out ways to help students engage with the school. “Being back in person and being able to interact with students and their families is something I am looking forward to doing this school year,” Ms. Kirkorsky said. “Seeing extra-curricular activities being fully back and participating in sports and clubs is another thing I’m glad has returned after COVID.”

Ms. Lucy Tapia

with their peers,” Mr. Mugnolo said. “I am happy Ms. Tapia joins the math department as a Math that we can finally have conversations and interact 2, Algebra 2, and Trigonometry teacher. When with the students in real life and not over a screen.” she’s not teaching, Ms. Tapia enjoys spending time outdoors and being with family. As a math teacher, Ms. Tapia loves seeing the effort students put in to Mr. Pankratz is one of three new math teachers understand the material. “[Now that we’re back in joining the math department this year as a Math 2 person] I’m excited to build relationships with my and Math 3 teacher. Mr. Pankratz is also the head students and see their excitement for the school football coach of the Freshman B team as well as the activities like homecoming week,” Ms. Tapia said.

Mr. Will Pankratz

Junior Powderpuff coach. This year, Mr. Pankratz is looking forward to connecting with his students both in the classroom and on the football field.

“Now that everyone is back in-person, I am looking forward to meeting all the staff and students and Ms. Lin is another new addition to the World getting involved with the Maine South community,” Languages Department as a Mandarin teacher. Ms. Mr. Pankratz said.

Lin teaches Mandarin 4, Mandarin 4 Accelerated, and AP Mandarin. Outside of school, Ms. Lin enjoys reading books and watching TV. “The best Ms. Pappas is a new member of the CTE part of my job is when my students can speak Chinese with me,” Ms. Lin said. “This school year, Department. She is teaching Culinary 1 as well as I’m happy that I can see my students in-person and Financial Literacy this year. Ms. Pappas teaches at I want to set up a good classroom environment for Maine West as well. In her free time, she enjoys being outside, walking, and swimming. As a my students.” swimmer in high school, Ms. Pappas enjoys both swimming and water polo. She also loves to spend time with her family and friends whenever she Mr. Mugnolo is a new staff member in the World can. The best part of her job is being able to teach Languages Department. He teaches Italian, and things that she is passionate about and things that he is interested in soon being involved with Fine are important for students to learn. “This school Arts performances. When he’s not teaching, Mr. year I am looking forward to making connections Mugnolo spends his time reading, writing, going with students and having them socialize in class,” to shows and musicals, and playing piano. “The Ms. Pappas said. “We missed out on a lot of best part of my job is seeing students grow, become the ‘fun’ in school, so I’m excited it’s back now.” more confident in themselves, and make new bonds

Ms. Rongrong Lin

Ms. Paulina Pappas

Mr. Nicholas Mugnolo

From left to right: Mr. Will Pankratz, Ms. Paulina Pappas, & Mr. Mike Edwards

Mr. Mike Edwards

Mr. Edwards is the new Associate Principal for Student Experiences and handles student activities, assemblies, homecoming, and prom. Additionally, Mr. Edwards handles social emotional learning (SEL) for all grades, which includes activities like Hawk Pride. Mr. Edwards is also involved in helping oversee the P.E. Department, any posters and visual displays, as well as fire drills. When he’s not at school, Mr. Edwards enjoys watching sports, exercising, and spending time with his friends and family.

One of Mr. Edwards favorite parts of his job is being able to talk with students, whether it is about new clubs or helping with problems.

“Everytime I get to talk to a student it reinforces that feeling that Maine South is awesome,” he said.

Mr. Edwards is looking forward to this year’s homecoming dance.

“The beginning of the year starts, and for the entire month of August and September, I’m planning this one event that all students get to go to,” Mr. Edwards said. “I am looking forward to homecoming and having our students be able to attend a school dance once again.”

SouthwordS 3

NEWS

| October 1, 2021

New school year brings new schedule

Neil Meer

News Writer

F

or the fifth year in a row, Maine South has started the new year with a new schedule. The new schedule consists of five block days, whereas last year’s included four with an additional eight period day. In the new schedule, each week will switch between three odd period days and two even period days, and three even days and two odd days. The schedule also has a built-in advisory period every Wednesday.

“We n e e d e d m ore re g u l ar opportunities to implement career pro g r a m m i n g , SE L , bu i l d i n g operations, equity work, and other topics where having a consistent time was held,” principal Dr. Ben Collins said. “This model provides that.”

Some students, however, are struggling to find the value of advisory.

“I think [advisory] could be more

useful,” senior Nick Urquhart said.

Other students say that with some changes Advisory could be helpful.

“I think it can be more useful if we focus more on college stuff,” senior James Presslak said.

“S eniors have had s ome opportunities to learn about the beginning stages of the college process, which is critical this time of year,” Dr. Collins said. “Freshman still have their Hawk PRIDE work interwoven throughout the lessons and career programming will now be more present throughout the year for sophomores and juniors.”

Part of the reasoning for the schedule changes came from the lack of consistency in past schedules.

“There are ‘problems’ with every schedule but the greatest concern that came up from feedback groups was the lack of consistency,” Dr. Collin said.

Ironically, one of the major complaints regarding the new

schedule made by students is the lack of consistency.

“I dislike that we switch [between even and odd days] every week,” Urquhart said. “I don’t think that makes any sense and causes a lot of confusion.”

Despite some confusion, other students have found advantages to this new schedule.

“I like how it rotates so some weeks I have an easy week with three days that are shorter, which makes the workload lighter,” senior Charlie McAllister said.

When creating the schedule, input from students and staff was considered.

“Having a maximum of four classes a day garnered a positive response from students last year during the feedback sessions,” Dr. Collins said. “Additionally, a consistent bell schedule is important to staff.”

Several components of previous

schedules were also infused into the new schedule. Split lunches remain a part of the new schedule, and the numerical ordering of block days returns for the first time since 2019. SPLIT OPINIONS The Southwords commentary weighs in on split lunches returning to the schedule.

See page 7 As for the longevity of this schedule, Dr. Collins hopes it will remain a permanent fixture of Maine South.

“I hope we can keep things consistent,” Dr. Collins said. “Seniors have had four different schedules through high school and the student feedback groups expressed their frustration over that, as did the staff.

There was no way to avoid it with COVID, but it’s important to provide as much of a predictable environment as possible.”

Seniority matters: the parking dilemma Tania Stefanov

News Writer ast year, the hybrid schedule minimize d t he numb er of students attending school in person at one time, allowing the majority of juniors and seniors to park on campus.

As of this year, the parking lots are unable to accommodate the high demand for spots as the school operates at full capacity. For this reason, administration has opted to only offer parking passes to seniors for the 2021-2022 school year.

“In previous years, parking passes were given out to seniors before opening up a lottery to juniors,” Assistant Principal of Student Supports Kyleen Coia said. “[This year,] we have had more parking requests from seniors than we can honor, so we have not gone on to juniors.”

While this decision came as a surprise to many students, principal Dr. Ben Collins doesn’t believe it should have been.

“It’s normal to only have spots for seniors with the high number of drivers,” Dr. Collins said.

However, some juniors are able to receieve parking passes if they qualify

L

4 SouthwordS

for special circumstances.

“If a junior has an internship, they may be able to receive a pass,” Dr. C ollins s aid. “Ot her wis e, administration is not planning to offer more passes at a later time.”

While this decision has resolved the chaos in the parking lots, it has been controversial and left many students with mixed opinions.

“I think that the parking situation has definitely not been handled as well as it should have been,” senior Grace Kopf said. “While I’m thankful that the passes were free this year, there are many days where there are not enough spots for me to park.”

Due to the limited parking, Kopf PHOTO BY EDEN WENING said that she is glad the passes were STICKING TO THE RULES All student vehicles in the parking lot are only available for seniors. branded with the new 2021-2022 sticker. Students without parking passes will receive tickets. CRITERIA CRITIQUE The Southwords editorial staff weighs in on parking pass distribution this year.

See page 6 “If they [student parking passes] were offered to other grades too, the situation would probably be even worse than it already is,” Kopf said.

Junior Nel Kupiec wishes that

juniors could park on campus, but agrees that problems would arise if excess passes were distributed.

“The situation wouldn’t be better if passes were available to more people,” Kupiec said.

For students with extracurriculars, not having a parking pass is especially inconvenient.

“Because I play a sport, taking the bus home is not an option for me,” junior Joslyn Crawford said.

“I understand seniority matters, but the situation makes me upset.”

Most students agree that while the decision is imperfect, it resolved the beginning-of-the-school year traffic jams. Ms. Coia remains hopeful that parking will not be an issue in future years to come.

“In an ideal world, we would have enough spots for everyone on campus and this would not be an issue,” Ms. Coia said.

October 1, 2021

| NEWS

STUDENTS HONOR THOSE LOST

Senior Brianna Irizarry (left) reads a heartfelt poem by Billy Collins during a morning ceremony on Sept. 10. Junior Alex Wille (right) plays “Taps” on the trumpet to close the ceremony. This was one of two Maine South events to commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11.

9/11 memorial services commemorate 20th anniversary Jake Snyder

News Editor n Friday, Sept. 10, the Maine South community gathered for two events to honor our first responders and those lost in the Sept.

11 attacks of 2001.

One of the ceremonies took place before school in Center Court, while the other took place in the evening on the field before the varsity football game.

Community members, students, and staff members were in attendance for the events. Additionally, first

O

responders from Park Ridge, Niles, Harwood Heights, and Rosemont attended the evening ceremony.

The pre-game ceremony involved a rendition of the national anthem, played by the Maine South band, followed by a performance of “God Bless America,” and then finally a moment of silence for those who were lost in the attacks.

In regards to the large turnout, principal Dr. Ben Collins was pleased.

“It was a home football game and everyone has been caged up with a lot of energy, but it was also youth

football night, so a lot of families were for that as well,” Dr. Collins said.

In addition to Dr. Collins, Athletic Director Mr. Matt Ryder, Associate Principal for Student Experiences Mr. Mike Edwards, and Band Director Mr. David Hutter helped plan the event.

The morning ceremony involved a reading by senior Brianna Irizarry of “The Names,” a poem written by Billy Collins.

“Reading the 9/11 poem by Billy Collins was an honor,” Brianna

Irizarry said. “It perfectly captured what all Americans and their families were feeling during such a difficult time.”

Despite not living through the event, Irizarry recognizes and sympathizes with those whose lives were drastically changed by the tragic day.

“It was surreal to reflect on an event that so many have struggled with before I was even born,” Irizarry said. “Seeing people come together to commemorate those lost as well as celebrate our resilience was beautiful.”

through our new event app, 5-Star for Students, and dancing will be outdoors,” Assistant Principal of Student Experiences Mr. Mike Edwards said. “Students will be able to come inside to take pictures, grab a quick seat, and play some small games.”

This year, Mr. Edwards and the Student Council officers have been working together to plan an event that prioritizes everyone’s safety while making sure homecoming is still a fun experience for students. This will be the first homecoming for more than half of the student body.

In an effort to keep students safe, homecoming will be primarily held outside.

“We are having our event mostly they are not bringing any items that outdoors during the beginning of are not allowed.”

October, so who knows what weather Students can also look forward we will get,” Mr. Edwards said. “It to homecoming week, planned by could randomly be 80 degrees or as Student Council. low as 40 at night. I want students to “We have s ome sup er f un be prepared to dress spirit days planned comfortably and “We are so excited for for homecoming have a wonderful week, including all we have planned and homecoming bingo, time” Typical safety hope everyone takes hallway decorating, pro ce dures wi l l advantage of all the fun activities during lunch be implemented, opportunities” periods, and more,” and students are Student Council Vice -Caroline Barker ‘22 President, Caroline expected to follow guidelines.

Barker said. “We are so excited “Be responsible,” Mr. Edwards for all we have planned and hope said. “As always, we will be checking everyone takes advantage of all the in students at the entrance to be sure fun opportunities we have in store.”

Homecoming makes a comeback on Oct. 2

Campbell Micek News Writer

A

fter a year off, the Homecoming Dance will return on Saturday, Oct. 2. This year, the theme will be Disco Fever.

“We originally had a list of 20 or so theme ideas,” said Student Class Council President, Jill Koepke. “Disco Fever felt like the right fit as the ‘70s are trending right now, and it is a pretty broad theme that leaves us a lot of room for spirit days and other activities.”

Homecoming will take place on Oct. 2 from 7-10 p.m., and tickets were available for purchase from Sept.

19-27 for $25.

“Ticket sales [were] handled

SouthwordS 5

COMMENTARY

| October 1, 2021

Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068 http://www.southwords.org

Scan this QR code to e-mail Southwords

ILLUSTRATION BY JOSEPH DICOLA

STAFF EDITORIAL

Calling for more equitable parking pass distribution

M

aine South has historically struggled to create a truly fair distribution plan for student parking passes for its students.

Typically, parking pass priority is given to seniors first, followed by juniors. Additionally, administration has given extra consideration to students involved in carpools and internships. The current plan does not meet the needs of the students.

Since fe wer stu d ent s we re attending in-person classes last year, there were no strictly enforced restrictions on student parking, allowing all grade levels the option to park.

This year, parking is more limited than many previous years due to 100 spots in the cafe lot being sacrificed to on-site construction workers.

In May of 2021, an interest form for parking spots was sent solely to rising seniors. Seniors alone accounted for over 400 applications, but there are currently only 382 spots available.

Many seniors are taking advantage of this new exclusive privilege, leaving the rest of the student body to fend for off-campus parking and coordinate other modes of transportation.

Bus schedules, car pools, and

guardian availability are all factors preventing students involved in internships, athletics, and fine arts from having convenient transit options.

Passes need to be thoughtfully distributed with the intent to best support the needs of all students, rather than issuing passes based purely on seniority.

Administrators should address this unfair distribution of parking passes by considering factors that are more important than seniority—namely proximity, extracurricular activities, and carpools. By implementing a three-tier point system, the juniors and seniors who need parking passes the most can be strategically prioritized.

Students with more points would be placed at a higher priority for receiving a parking pass. This gives all upperclassmen equal opportunity to drive to school, based on their needs.

Students who live further should gain one point for each mile they live from the school, consequently earning extra consideration for a parking pass.

Additionally, students who par ticipate in extracurricular

“Passes need to be thoughtfully distributed with the intent to best support the needs of all students.”

6 SouthwordS

activities should qualify for a point.

It is important to ensure students have easy access to transportation, especially when they may be leaving the building after dark.

Another point should be granted to students who are involved in carpooling. Carpooling helps ensure more students have transportation to the school campus; therefore, extra consideration should be awarded to those leading a carpool.

While priority is currently given to seniors who carpool, the system should be less restrictive to include juniors who carpool. The grade level of the students involved in a carpool should not impact the granting of a point.

Should a junior have more need than a senior, the junior should be awarded the parking pass.

However, a senior should still be prioritized if they exhibit the same need as a junior.

A sophomore who petitions their need for a parking pass due to special circumstances should also be considered for one.

Parking pass distribution has already been made more equitable this year, as students no longer need to pay for a spot (which previously cost about $125); however, there is still room for growth.

This proposed three-tier, needbased policy can be implemented to ensure that all students are given the same opportunities for parking.

S outhw ord s i s a stu d e nt - r u n publication designed as a public forum for student opinion and balanced reporting on topics relevant to the Maine South community.

Unsigned staff editorials represent the consensus opinion of the Southwords Editorial Board. Personal commentaries represent the opinion of the author alone and do not represent the opinions of the publication nor District 207.

Stu d e nt p ar t i c ip at i on i n t h e newspaper, whether through readership, submitting articles, or voicing comments or concerns, is encouraged.

Signed letters to the editor can be given to a member of the editorial staff or e-mailed to southwords@maine207.org.

Southwords reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject obscene/libelous submissions.

Editors-in-Chief

John Biagi Lillian Niziolek Elizabeth Ryser

News Editors Elizabeth Handley Beth Kosiorek Jake Snyder Commentary Editors Darin Cheng Jacob Mascort Andjela Trkulja Features Editors

Lilien Schirazi Molly Shanahan

Entertainment Editors Julia Gryczko Jenna Marchuk Andrea Smith Sports Editors Madison Basquin Hayden Bower Matthew Moskal Production Editors Natalia Kowaleska Eden Wening Adviser

Mr. Stathakis

October 1, 2021

| COMMENTARY

B-lunch only causes more problems for the student body Jacob Mascort Commentary Editor

B

-lunch has made its reappearance in the block schedule this school year. Unfortunately, for many students, it is an unwelcome addition.

While B-lunch was reintroduced as a solution to the limited size of the eating spaces in our school, the manner in which the school implemented it into the schedule does not serve student needs.

B-lunch has few pros and several cons. It interrupts valuable instructional time for teachers, lengthy summative exams, and even discussions about class topics.

Because of this, students assigned to B-lunch may be disadvantaged academically. The amount of time it takes for students to pack up for lunch and then re-prepare themselves for class afterward means that students with B-lunches receive less instructional time than students assigned to other lunches. Leaving in the middle of these important tasks cannot be justified by any means.

B-lunch also results in some teachers rushing to complete certain activities or topics before the class leaves for lunch. While teachers can plan around it, the frequency with which it appears every week

makes it a tedious process.

Additionally, B-lunch is one of the most About one-third of students that attend Maine confusing aspects of the school schedule. Many South have B-lunch in their schedules; These students have never experienced this split lunch students must deal with the inconveniences of before since it has not been used since the 2019rushing to and from class several times each lunch 2020 school year, making it both new and difficult period. for many to understand.

The flow of the lunch periods has always There are many potential solutions to this interfered with returning to class in a timely problem such as additional traffic control, fashion; however, it is even worse for students additional lunch spaces, and off-campus lunch. attempting to return to class after B-lunch.

If we were to allocate the vacant rooms used These students are always stuck in between A for study halls as additional lunch spaces, it would and C-lunch students rushing to and from their give students more space to eat and utilize less5th and 6th period classes. It is a never-ending trafficked sections of the school. traffic jam in the commons, cafeteria, main hallway, Another solution would be to allow students and now the new hallway connecting the A and to go off-campus for lunch. Over the years, many B-wings together, cut in half by students have been pushing the temporary construction. I “It makes it harder for off-campus lunch which myself have experienced repeated for students to learn would greatly increase the tardiness due to the gridlock that available space in the cafeteria information in their 5th and commons. This change occurs throughout the school.

This is obviously difficult, would allow the school to use and 6th period classes especially considering the lack only A and C lunch. of a designated passing period and creates traffic Minor improvements for B-lunch students. Not only buildup in the hallways." implemented over time can does having no passing period increase the flow of the daily make the transit to and from class more hectic, but schedule of all students and prevent these types of it also results in less time for these students to eat. problems from occurring.

The omission of mid-lunch passing periods turns a It is time we created a solution to provide 45-minute B-lunch period into a 30-minute period; students with an equitable lunch period that allows The journey to the cafeteria and back can transform them to actually retain the information learned in a normally short walk into a protracted struggle. class without interruptions.

The importance of casual classroom conversations Lillian Niziolek Editor-In-Chief

“H

ey, guys! Happy Monday!

How was your weekend?!”

At the beginning of a new school year, starting a conversation with your classmates before the bell rings can seemingly prove to be a few things: awkward, dry, and uncomfortable.

More likely than not, your partner or table mate is not someone you choose to spend time with on the weekends or eat lunch with; they are often people you don’t speak to unless you are actually in that class.

In an attempt to avoid mundane conversation, many students dive into the security of their cell phones. Even I, someone who can be considered a sociable person, will sometimes fall into this trap.

These devices can be detrimental when attempting to foster casual conversation before class, negatively

impacting the classroom environment.

Recently, however, I have been putting my phone into the phone pocket as soon as I walk into class, which has forced me to strike up conversations with my peers. As uncomfortable as this might have been at first, I have begun to see the value in these little conversations.

Something I craved when confined to my bedroom at this time last year was social interaction.

Although conversation before class was something I never really paid attention to, when it was gone, I missed my random classroom “acquaintances.”

Now, I make sure to take advantage of the time we do have together.

Breaking the ice with the people who sit near me has fulfilled my need for that extra social interaction I missed last year—but it does much more than that.

Overall, It has cultivated a more dynamic classroom experience.

The informal conversation before a lesson begins increases comfort between classmates; we are not afraid to ask our neighbor if we are confused

ILLUSTRATION BY NAT KOWALEWSKA

about a question, and we are willing to listen and challenge others opinions.

It would be unreasonable to expect to be best friends with all of the people who sit near you in class. But a little conversation can go a long way, making your classroom experience that much better.

The next time you are in class, instead of gravitating towards your phone, engage with those around you.

Those seemingly unbearable couple of awkward seconds will soon pass, and time in the classroom will become much more enjoyable when you actually interact with your peers.

SouthwordS 7

PHOTO BY NAT KOWALEWSKA

FEATURES | October 1, 2021

PHOTO BY EDEN WENING

The B-Wing:

PHOTO BY NAT KOWALEWSKA

The Cafeteria:

The B-wing is home to the new art rooms, the Academic Res and additional classrooms, and has been completed for th school year. The B-wing features new art classrooms able to a a large number of students, as well as new facilities with s supplies. There is also a new darkroom for the photograph Academic Resource Center has more space for students to from teachers and their peers with separate areas for differen

T he c afe te r i a u nd e r we nt mass ive renovations as it was moved to where the old courtyard used to be. With high ceilings and windows that allow for more natural light, there is a much more open environment for students to congregate and eat lunch. The cafeteria also has additional high-top seating that extends towards the new lunch lines. The cafeteria is more centrally located wich allows for greater access by students and staff. Additionally, the bookstore was relocated to the cafeteria for easier student access.

The Culinary Rooms: The culinary rooms received major upgrades during the construction. In a d d it i on t o b e i ng moved from the region that is now home to the cafeteria, the new culinary rooms wich feature brand new appliances, counter tops, and large islands for preparing meals.

The rooms also feature large TVs that make it easier to demonstrate techniques and project recipes onto when instructing.

8 SouthwordS

PHOTO BY NAT KOWALEWSKA

The Commons:

The recently renovated “comm a brand new space that is equi students as they collaborate on w time together. The new commons center of the school, a prime locat wishing to get work done during a The CCRC, library, and cafeteria a off of the commons area this year, easily accessible to students. The c has several couches, tables, and sea students to use.

October 1, 2021| FEATURES

Maine South

Renovated

source Center, the 2021-2022 accommodate storage for art hy classes. The o receive help ent subjects.

PHOTO BY EDEN WENING PHOTO BY EDEN WENING

The Back Hallway: The back hallway is officially enclosed and now provides an additional route for students to use when heading from the A-wing to other parts of the building. The hallway is made up of nearly all windows on the inner wall that faces our courtyard, while the outer wall has more brick. The hallway replaced the previous outdoor pathways that led from the A-wing to the other parts of the building like the cafeteria.

Now, students have direct access to the other side of the building without having to leave the school.

s:

mons” area is ipped to seat work or spend s is also in the ation for those an off period. are all located making them commons also ating areas for

PHOTO BY EDEN WENING

SouthwordS 9

FEATURES | October 1, 2021

Swan sensation sweeps South Lilien Schirazi and Molly Shanahan

PHOTO BY EDEN WENING

Features Editors

A

s students fill up water bottles or walk to class, they may glance up and notice origami swans in unexpected places throughout the building. The student behind this new paper sensation is senior Jayce Lassa who handcrafts and places the swans around Maine South. The swans range in size from an inch to five feet and have been made in colors from imperial gold to classic notebookpaper white.

“It started off as I made a paper swan randomly,” Lassa said. “It takes about 45 seconds to one minute to make an origami swan, so it’s pretty easy to make a bunch of them and then spread them around.”

Lassa utilizes his spare time to strategically make and place his creations around the school to expand his swan army.

“I put the swans in this box that I have in my backpack,” Lassa said.

“Before and after school, during school, or any free periods I usually spend time making [swans].Then, I spread them around.”

“The end goal in general was to get a bunch of the swans around the school so that everywhere you look, you’ll probably see one,” Lassa said.

The affectionately-named “Edwardos” have been popping up around school in random locations.

Lassa hopes the obscure placements will discourage vandalism and damage to school property.

“I just try to put them anywhere that could be hidden. I usually put them higher up and not on tables or floors so that janitors don’t need to worry about them,” Lassa said.

“The most obscure place I have put one is in a missing roof tile and there is a swan peeking down below in a hallway. I had to use a chair to strategically place the swan after school.”

Due to the growing popularity of the swans, an Instagram account was created called @the_edwardo_ms that advertises the swans.

Students also began to speculate about the creator and some were inspired to make their own. There have even been multiple ‘fan pages’ created for the Edwardos.

“Sometimes when I’m placing

10 SouthwordS

SWAN KING

Lassa placed a five-foot six-inch swan tower in Center Court on Sept.

20. His mission was to spread his “army” of paper swans throughout the school.

them down, students come up to me and say, ‘Oh you’re the swan guy!’”

Lassa said. “It appears that I’ve started some kind of trend because now I’m seeing paper hats and frogs appearing around, unrelated to me.”

The swans have an uncanny resemblance to a favorite supermarket activity.

“It’s kind of like trying to find the gorilla at Trader Joe’s but with paper swans,” senior Nicolette Mayer said.

“I feel like I see a brand new swan in a different location everyday.”

Lassa stayed anonymous during the early stages of his swan-making endeavor. As more people started spotting him placing the swans down, Lassa decided to tell his close friends.

Lassa even has a fan base for his delicate paper creatures.

“I started noticing the majestic creatures about a couple of weeks ago,” senior William Von Staats said.

“Immediately after, I was curious.

Who is making these paper swans?

One day later, I found out that Jayce was the leader of the swans, also known as the Edwardos. So knowing that a good friend was behind it, I joined him in his efforts because, why not? It’s fun!”

“The sensational swans have the opportunity to become something great for the school in unity,” Von Staats. “So when students see a swan they know they had a part in it as well.”

As students have spotted the origami swans around Maine South, it has connected the student body through laughter and joy, and has had an overall positive impact on everyone.

“I think the swans can spread school spirit,” senior Nicolette

Mayer said. “I feel as if everybody knows about the spectacular swans now, and I’ve heard a lot of people laughing and talking about them. It can provide another way for students to be brought together.”

The swans have even led to new friendships being formed from students talking, laughing, and even competing to see who can spot the most swans.

It wasn’t just students who have noticed these new origami swans around the building.

“I started hearing teachers talking about how there’s a bunch of swans around,” Lassa said.

The swans have been placed around the school in only a couple of weeks by Lassa along with the help of friends, students, and fans.

“On invasion day, we jumped from 600 Edwardos deployed in the school to 1,600,” Lassa said.

These origami swans have had an overall positive and heartwarming impact on the entire school including students, staff, and faculty members.

“Not only students, but teachers have bonded over swans,” Von Staats said. “One day, I walked into a classroom, and saw an Edwardo on Mr. Brown’s desk. I have also seen students hand them off to each other.”

Students have connected with each other, bonding over the multicolored and fun origami swans that have been spotted all around school.

“It started as a senior prank but now it’s become a way of spreading positivity,” Lassa said. “So, that people will see one and be like ‘Oh there’s a paper swan!’ and their day will be just a little better.”

PHOTO BY EDEN WENING

READY FOR ACTION

Lassa got to school at 7:30 to spread his swans through the Center Court. This was a part of “invasion day” where Lassa set an additional 1,000 swans.

October 1, 2021 | ENTERTAINMENT

Fall play performed live for first time since 2019 Jenna Marchuk, Andrea Smith, & Julia Gryczko

Entertainment Editors his year’s Fall Play, “Charlotte’s Web,” will be performed live, unlike last year’s Fall and Winter Plays, which were both recorded and streamed online. While the cast and crew are back to a more traditional play, COVID precautions have still affected the production of the play.

Senior Taylor Truckenbrod is a narrator for the play along with sophomores Annie McDonough and Courtney Miller.

Her experience this year has been quite different from last year, when there were much stricter COVID restrictions and no opportunity to perform live.

“My experience during this year’s fall play has already been different from last year because the whole cast is able to be together in the same room,” Truckenbrod said. “We rehearse in the orchestra room for all the shows, but that wasn’t the case last year because of COVID. It’s so nice to be back in the room that feels like my second home and has so many memories within it.”

Additionally, she has appreciated the opportunity to perform live and has enjoyed it much more than recording the play, which was a process that was unfamiliar to everybody involved.

“It’s b e e n n i c e t o a l re a d y be able to rehearse together and performing together will be amazing,” Truckenbrod said. “I’m really excited to have a live audience. It adds a whole extra element to the show; the energy in the room shifts, and having live reactions is always really cool.”

T

PHOTO BY EDEN WENING

PASSING IT ON

Junior Kelly Croke (right) and freshman Meghan Magruder (left) work together to paint bowls. These and other props will be used in the play and are all created by the prop crew.

Having the productions streamed online did have some benefits, however. The productions were able to be seen by those who normally don’t have a chance to. This includes family and friends who don’t live nearby as well the members of the production including cast, crew, and pit (for the musical), or those who wouldn’t feel comfortable going in due to the pandemic.

“When you are a part of the show, you never get to truly see the final product from an audience’s perspective,” said director Ms. Carrie Saurer. “Streaming made that possible.”

While there were some advantages

to having the productions streamed online, Saurer echoed Truckenbrod’s sentiments of the energy of live theatre being invaluable.

“There are many reasons that theatre is not streamed; the pandemic essentially created an exception to the rules,” Ms. Saurer said. “It remains to be seen whether or not there will be broad changes in the theatre industry, but at this point, I do not believe that productions will be streamed in the future.”

In a d d it i on to t h e a c tors’ experiences being different from last year, the lighting crew also noticed changes.

Junior Raseel Khwaiss has been a member of the lighting crew during her three years at Maine South.

She has had a much more organized experience this year, mainly due to less uncertainty. The pandemic caused a lot of cancellations and rescheduling, which made the process far more difficult.

“Last year was kind of all over the place because our schedules kept changing and we did not have for sure plans,” Khwaiss said. “We didn’t even know if the shows were going to go through sometimes because of COVID scares. This year is definitely a lot more certain, although the construction of the school gets in the PHOTO BY EDEN WENING way of all of the things we do now.”

WEAVING IT ALL TOGETHER Senior Emily Bensing sews together a Junior Ava Baruffi, Student costume for Templeton. The crew uses pieces from previous shows to make new ones.

Director of the play, also recognizes that there are unique challenges presented this year.

“One of the biggest challenges are the COVID restrictions we have for almost every show now,” Baruffi said. “Plays and musicals can get very intimate, and last year we were instructed to have absolutely no touching, but this year, we can. We can’t fully do a hug yet, but we are getting there. We also use clear masks now which are great because we can see mouths again but they fog up a lot.

We are trying some anti-fog spray and so far, so good.”

Baruffi is also very excited to be the Student Director.

“I have really wanted to do this for so long now and now that I have the chance to with such an awesome show and such a great cast and crew, it has been even better than I imagined.”

Originally published as a novel in 1952 by E.B. White, “Charlotte’s Web” has been turned into movies and performed on stage for decades. The heartwarming story involves Wilbur (a pig), Charlotte (a spider), and Fern (the girl living on the farm). Charlotte is able to save Wilbur from being slaughtered by writing on her web.

The play will be performed live at the Watson Auditorium on Oct. 14, 16, and 17 at 7:30. Tickets will be available each night of the play for $7 each at the door.

SouthwordS 11

ENTERTAINMENT

| October 1, 2021

Bringing the band back together Sara Plaza and Leah Alava

Entertainment Writers ver the last 18 months, students have had many opportunities taken away from them.

However, as students head back into the classroom, activities have started up again, one of them being the Maine South Marching Band.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many members of the marching band lack experience.

Band Director David Hutter noted that half of the band is new to marching, which is another challenge in the process. Upperclassmen also haven’t marched for a long time and will need to relearn specific skills. Since the whole band is in person, the target is for the band to relearn how to play together.

Many new safety regulations have been brought into place due to COVID. The restrictions have

O

PHOTO BY MOLLY SHANAHAN

ON THE WHISTLE!

Senior Paul Yadgar instructs the band using his whistle. Paul is one of three drum majors.

PHOTO BY MOLLY SHANAHAN

MARCHING ON

The marching band goes mask-free outside to practice their upcoming performances. When the band moves inside, they are required to wear masks.

been less strict than last year, which helps the band to bond and practice more efficiently. The biggest new safety regulations are the musician’s masks, which have a slit cut into them just small enough to fit a mouthpiece. Using these masks helps to minimize the amount of saliva released into the air while students are playing. They are mandatory when students are playing inside but are optional outside, and a regular mask is required to be worn over a musician’s mask when not playing. In addition to the masks, communal water jugs have been replaced by individual water bottles.

One thing that has not changed is the band performing at football games.

“From an audience perspective, the band will look and return to normality,” Mr. Hutter said.

“It’s our goal to look and sound normal because we

want to make sure that the home-field advantage at Maine South is as strong as ever.”

Another thing that hasn’t changed is the excitement for the upcoming season. The band is preparing for their “Just Dance” halftime show.

“I have nothing but good things to say about the new marchers,” junior Callie Berthold said.

“I’m extremely proud of the new students for all their hard work, and I’m confident that this year will be a great one.”

Mr. Hutter, like many of his students, feels a renewed sense of purpose.

“We’re doing this for a reason,” he said. “We’re giving our students the best opportunity, and now we really truly know how important band is and how meaningful it is to students after not having it last year.”

Lollapalooza­—safe or superspreader?

Bella Murphy & Jenna Marchuk

Entertainment Writer & Editor

L

ollapalooza, a popular music festival held at Grant Park, was still held this summer with minimal changes despite the pandemic.

The festival was held from July 2831 and included many popular artists such as Miley Cyrus and Post Malone.

This year, COVID restrictions were in place to enter the festival. Either a full vaccination or negative test results obtained within 72 hours were required to enter the festival. With an estimated 380,000 guests and no mask mandates, many worried about this being a possible “super-spreader” event.

Senior Carys Hickey attended the festival, and was not worried about COVID. “I thought the festival was being responsible by everyone entering the festival needing proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test,” she said.

12 SouthwordS

“By the end of the event, I was a little bit worried due to the amount of people there, but my friends and I were all healthy and had a blast.”

Junior Reese Lawrence had positive feelings about the festival as well.

“I was not worried about COVID pre-Lolla because I was vaccinated and at the time COVID was getting better,” she said. “After the event I immediately got COVID tested and it came back negative.”

Despite being vaccinated, her experience wasn’t without worry.

“I was nervous about getting sick because of being exposed to a large group of people,” Lawrence said.

Some students decided that the mass gathering wasn’t worth the risk.

“Obviously the main concern was COVID and I saw after and during the festival there were so many crowds and nobody was wearing masks,” senior Patrice Andrews said. “With the Delta Variant and everything, it would be a super-spreader event. It

PHOTO COURTESY LYDIA MORRISON

LIVING IT UP AT LOLLA

Seniors Lydia Morrison, Audrey Paluch, Carys Hickey, and Claire Lewis smile at the festival. The girls felt comfortable and had a fun time.

was a good decision not to go. I would have been really scared about COVID and would’ve been putting a lot of people in danger.”

Senior Julia Buonsante chose not to go to the festival as well.

“I think it was an intelligent

decision not to go,” Buonsante said. “It wasn’t the most conscientious thing [going to the festival with COVID] that people could have done.”

Hopefully by the next festival, attendees will feel safer and there will be less controversy about the crowds.

October 1, 2021 | SPORTS

The great debate of what qualifies as a sport impact of ignoring physical health.

Records and performances greatly Sports Writer improved as players began to stay he textbook definition of a healthy and in shape. sport is: “An activity involving “Today, world class players go physical exertion and skill in which an through extensive physical training. individual or team competes against Medical researchers study them another or others for entertainment.” because during a tournament they This term is frequently applied to can burn 6,000 calories per day, major sports, like football, basketball, Players are known to lose 10-20 and baseball. It also includes activities pounds during a tournament,” Mr. that people may not consider sports, Bachler said. such as cheerleading, chess, golf, and In contrast, senior Ryne Downing, dance. a member of boys’ varsity soccer, has Several people, however, would played chess before and enjoys it, but consider chess a sport, including the does not think it qualifies as a sport.

Maine South chess coach, Mr. Kevin “When one examines the Bachler. definition and taxonomy of the word “Chess is definitely a sport, and ‘sport’ it quickly becomes clear that it is also an art," he said. "Some chess cannot be classified as such,” sports are very physically intense, Downing said.“The game of chess, and perhaps less mentally intense— not being an activity which entails perhaps an iron man competition. atypical physical exertion, more Other sports are a blend—football, accurately can be described as a soccer, tennis. And some require competition of the mind; a game for physical and mental skills—like golf. the intellect. It is this difference in Chess puts a lot of strain on your mental vs. physical exertion which mind and mentality. But the physical causes chess to fall short of athletic aspect of high-level tournament chess designation or representation in the is much greater than the average realm of sport.” person realizes.”

Senior Yassir Atlas, who has been Hawks chess players have several a member of the Maine South chess tournaments throughout the year, team for quite a while does not which can produce consider chess to be the same amount of a sport. stress as traditional “A s p o r t , b y “Competing against definition, sports. involves “ T h i n k o f other people makes physical exertion," he being in deep "One can play something a sport.” said. concentration for chess without limbs; hours," Mr. Bachler -Scarlett Roche(‘24) chess fundamentally said. "Physically, requires no physical your brain is exertion. It is certainly burning through sugars (it only not a sport.” burns sugar, not fat or protein) and Sophomore Scarlett Roche, on forming lactic acid in the brain and varsity cheerleading, has been doing bloodstream. Lactic acid causes cheer for over five years on both a tiredness, along with doubt, worry, recreational and a competitive team. fear, depression. The way to remove Cheer is often criticized as not being lactic acid from the bloodstream is a sport, especially the sideline aspect. physical activity—it is processed out “In cheer you compete against through the muscles. I’ve trained other people, and if you think about it, my chess students for years to do it’s kind of similar to football," Roche quad stretches during long games said. "In football you throw a ball and to help remove lactic acid from you catch it, and in cheer you throw the bloodstream. In the ‘old days’, and catch a person. You also have grandmasters smoked, drank, and ate to tumble, like flip over your body. too much. Starting with Fischer and There’s just a lot of components that Spassky, players began to recognize actually are really difficult.” the importance of being in great Downing, along with both chess shape.” and soccer, plays golf. He does not Looking at old chess tournaments play golf at Maine South but he has with the kinds of chess masters still seen the competitive side to golf. mentioned, one can see the negative Several people would argue that due

Anthony Giustino

PHOTO BY EDEN WENING

T

to the lack of consistent physical activity that golf would not qualify as a sport.

“Of course golf is a sport,” Downing said.“It is a competition between opposing parties which, especially at high levels of play, requires precise technique and coordination of the entire body in order to attain low scores. Golfers exert physical effort and skill when swinging clubs, keeping their bodies in control, and walking vast distances on the golf course. Be it a personal pastime or a friendly match between casual opponents, golf is indeed a sport.”

Looking at today's professional golfers, we see physical exertion constantly appear in golf.

“Evidence to back this claim can be observed in the highly competitive arena of professional golf,” Downing said. “For instance, current world number one ranked Dustin Johnson spends two hours per day in the gym, and then another 90 minutes working on his game. Other pros spend hours on individual aspects of golf like putting or short irons. This intense training regimen is not dissimilar to the time and effort dedicated by athletes of household-name sports such as football or basketball. To surmise that golf is not a sport is a travesty.”

One of Maine South's Sports in Literature teachers Ms. Laura Kirshner often debates with her students on what qualities define something as a sport.

“Typically, the arguments against some of those items listed above is that they don’t require enough athleticism or physical exertion, like chess for example," Ms. Kirshner said. "An argument against chess is that it is a board game that doesn’t draw much of

a crowd or social following typically, though fans of the show 'The Queen’s Gambit' disagree!”

"The Queen’s Gambit" is a popular Netflix mini-series. The show staring Anya Taylor-Joy shows another side of the game Chess. It shows the mental effects the game has on a person. In the three weeks following the release of the show chess set sales actually increased by 87%.

“Others argue that chess is just as competitive and mentally exhausting as other sports," Ms. Kirshner said.

"As for things like dance and cheerleading, as long as they are functioning at a competitive level, as opposed to just for entertainment, students have generally classified them as sports.”

Both Cheerleading and Hawkettes have seasons going through both fall and winter. The fall seasons are more practicing and performing at games, while the winter season is the competitive season. During this season, they have several competitions, including Conference and State.

“Students sometimes argue that things such as competitive eating and poker are considered sports because they are featured on ESPN and have enough competition, skill, and stamina required to classify as sports," Ms. Kirshner said. "Overall, students seem most concerned about the activity’s amount of physical exertion and athleticism in order for it to qualify as a sport.”

Roche, as someone who has played competitive cheerleading, agrees that the level of competition is what actually qualifies a sport.

“If you’re competing, you're competing against other people, and competing against other people makes something a sport,” Roche said.

SouthwordS 13

SPORTS

| October 1, 2021

WE DON’T NEED WINGS TO FLY

Captain David Skorupa sprints for the ball trying to establish an attack on Highland Park. Maine South won 4-3 in our home stadium against Highland Park Sept. 9.

PHOTO BY RACHEL SMITH

Boys’ varsity soccer continues to stand strong Sargon Adam Sports Writer

F

ollowing a shortened spring season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the boys’ soccer team is looking forward to reaping the benefits of playing a full schedule.

Despite not getting the typical opportunities a team would receive last season, they are excited to be able to compete for Conference as well as have a chance to go deep in the state playoffs.

In order to achieve their aspirations, the team will have to continue building upon their efficient start to the season, according to senior captain and leading goal scorer Stefan Iricanin.

“We’ve played with a lot of grit and heart thus far into the season,” Iricanin said. “One goal we have as a team is to win the conference as well as the tournament in the back end of our schedule.”

The Hawks opened their season with a 1-0 win over Deerfield in their home opener. They would then embark on a road trip to the St. Charles Invite, finishing 2-2 overall.

“Though there have been bumps in the road, I feel we have been improving game by game both technically and strategically,” senior captain Ryne Downing said. “If we continue to compete hard, the team will find success.”

Despite playing a small number of regularseason games, the team has been working hard since the summer months. They’ve gone through a gauntlet of technical and fitness sessions as well as playing a full summer league schedule of games.

“We spent a lot of time going through gamelike skills and scenarios which helped prepare us mentally for the season,” senior midfielder Ian Kreger said.

As they transitioned into the season, the enthusiasm was already there. Their high-powered offense and stifling defense carried over to an impressive display of game play, and part of that can be attributed to the defense and their goal keeper, senior Christo Maheras.

“As a goal keeper on this team, it is one of my responsibilities to communicate effectively and be decisive with my actions,” Maheras said. “Everyone

works together—like a machine—to produce goals, to defend, and to progress the ball forward.”

“Our success in the back translates to other areas of the field,” senior defender Harry Fogel said.

“We like to build our offense from the back, and our communication and execution in the back is crucial for our offensive attack.”

Although the team is loaded with potential, head coach Daniel States has consistently preached the significance of leadership and chemistry.

Returning senior midfielder and captain David Skorupa knows all too well how important team leadership is for overall success.

“I felt like being a leader was more than just motivating the players,” Skorupa said. “It’s about leading by example both on and off the field.”

Following a 4-3 start, the team is excited about what the future holds.

“I’m just really happy that we get to have a regular season for my senior year,” said Iricanin.

“Getting a playoff run this year really means a lot.”

The team will play their last home game against Nazareth on Oct. 2.

Boys’ varsity golf swinging towards an appearance at State Drew Koenen Sports Writer

T

he season is in full swing for the boys’ varsity golf team. Since their start in mid-August, the golf team is 5-2 in head-to-head matches and placed 3rd in the CSL Conference tournament on Sept. 22, advancing the team to Regionals.

The team also recently took home an important win at a four-team tournament at Heritage Oaks Golf Club on Aug. 19.

In order to make it to State, the team has to place top three in their sectional.

Junior Jimmy Rourke recognizes the possibility of a historic season.

“We have talent all across the board, and I

14 SouthwordS

believe this is the year we finally make it to State,” Rourke said.

He believes that the team has no weak links, making the squad much more formidable compared to previous years.

“I believe our depth this year is the strongest aspect of our team,” Rourke said. “Our lineup is reliable through and through.”

Although Rourke recognizes the depth of the current roster, he acknowledges the set back the pandemic posed the previous season.

“We are in a very tough conference and sectional with some of the top teams in the State,” Rourke said. “However, last year we actually would have made State if the State tournament was not canceled due to COVID.”

The team has been able to build upon the successful parts of their 2020 campaign.

This year’s early success has proven to be no fluke, as the team has to play some of the top teams in the state while dealing with a tough and competitive conference. The boys are hoping they can continue this level of performance for the remainder of the season.

After 2020 the boys’ varsity golf team had one of the best seasons in school history, this year’s team believes they have the potential to be even better.

The boys’ performance this year puts them in the conversation of serious contenders this season, with their sights set on the state championship for the first time in Maine South boys’ varsity golf history.

October 1, 2021 | SPORTS

Girls’ golf stuns Evanston, finishes 3rd in CSL conference

PHOTO BY MOLLY SHANAHAN

Julia Beck

Sports Writer

T

Sophomore Amelia Stanek working on her serve at practice. The team is focusing on improving the key components of their games.

Girls’ tennis glad for chance to play in Edwardsville tournament Madison Basquin Sports Editor

T

he girls’ tennis team has kicked off their season with an impressive start. After COVID-19 caused an irregular season, the girls qualified for an invitational two-day match.

On Sept. 3 and 4 the team went to Edwardsville High School in Missouri for a two-day overnight tournament.

This Pro-Circuit tournament, intended to provide players with a professional ranking, celebrated its 10th year at Edwardsville High School and the tennis team got the opportunity to compete there for the fourth time.

Edwardsville first hosted this tournament in 2011 and is the only high school to ever host such a tournament.

Maine South first attended this tournament in 2017, but didn’t get to participate last year due to COVID-19.

Senior and captain Margaret Mizwicki is glad that the team had the opportunity to play.

“E dw ard s v i l l e w a s a g re at tournament,” Mizwicki said. “After not being able to go last year I was really looking forward to it.”

Sophomore Amelia Stanek, who has been on varsity for both of the years she has been attending Maine South, was proud of her team’s work.

“I felt we did really well, it was a good invite,” Stanek said. “We beat

Stevenson and lost to New Trier, but I felt we all did really well and I’m happy with how the tournament went.”

Hoping to improve, Mizwicki notes that the team still has some areas for growth.

“The things we need to work on are our volleys in doubles and starting each match with a fire right off the first serve,” Mizwicki said.

Stanek along with a few other of her teammates were specifically selected to compete in this tournament.

“It feels good to represent my school four hours away,” Stanek said.

The girls on the team had to travel over four hours and then manage to power through several tennis matches.

They then stayed overnight in a hotel, and the next morning they found out the remainder of their matches were canceled due to rain and they went home early.

Charlotte Hartung is the only freshman on varsity this season.“I was very happy I got to do it,” Hartung said.

Mizwicki is thrilled about the team’s accomplishments and hopeful for what the team can achieve.

“As a captain, I am really excited to see what our team can do,” Mizwicki said. “We have some really amazing girls this year whose skills are off the charts. I’m really looking forward to seeing how far out team can go this year.”

PHOTO CUURTESY LYDIA MORRISON

SERVE IT UP

he girls’ golf team had a great showing at the conference tournament, finishing in 3rd place behind the play of junior Maggie Woods, who finished 9th overall in the tournament with a score of 85.

After a successful tournament, and with Regionals and Sectionals in the near future, the girls are now getting ready for some big upcoming matches.

The team started their whirlwind of a season off with multiple intense matches.

T he y ho ste d t he Ev anston Wildkits, in a match that went all the way down to the wire. The girls ended up pulling away from Evanston by just a single stroke. After earning such a tough victory, it was clear that the girls are determined to come out on top this year.

They have spent lots of time preparing to dominate this season and have been following through on this.

About halfway through their season, these girls are looking ahead and getting ready for some big matches coming up.

Their match preparation consists of three main components: range days, practice rounds, and team bonding. Range days play a vital part in the team’s success. Whether trying to improve their shots or trying to keep them consistent, the girls’ time at the driving range is a key part in strengthening their performance and helping them prepare for upcoming matches.

Practice rounds serve a similar purpose and are another exercise the team uses to gear up for big matches.

Varsity golfer and junior Margaret Snyder views practice rounds as especially helpful.

“The practice rounds before games help with the nerves and make everyone excited for upcoming matches,” Snyder said.

Junior Libby Stewart, whose score solidified the team’s win over Evanston, similarly believes that their practices help keep everyone motivated and playing well.

“Our practices before our big matches strengthen our confidence and overall performance,” she explained.

As a second-year varsity golfer, Stewart is well versed in the process of training for high-stake matches. She attributes part of the team’s success to their team bonding. Hosting pasta parties and hangouts regularly, the team maintains a collective motivation to win and, most importantly, have fun this season.

“It is important for us to have fun and stay loose together as a team before our tournaments to ease the nerves,” Stewart said.

Snyder, who has played on the team for three years, agrees that she loves spending time with the team both outside of and during practice.

“I love when we practice on the course with everyone,” Snyder added.

The girls’ team-bonding has helped them in maintaining strength and a sense of resilience throughout the entire season.

TEE-RIFIC TOURNAMENT

Sophomore Jessica Hoffman, juniors Tessa Penn, Libby Stewart (top row left to right), senior Mia Penn, senior Lydia Morrison and junior Maggie Woods (bottom row left to right) celebrate their 3rd place finish at the conference tournament.

SouthwordS 15

CROSS COUNTRY | FOOTBALL | GOLF | BOYS’SOCCER | GIRLS’ SWIMMING | GIRLS’TENNIS | GIRLS’VOLLEYBALL

Blocking out negativity: volleyball’s positive attitude Kelly Carroll Sports Writer he girls’ varsity volleyball team is off to an impressive start this year with a 10-5 record.

Despite the positive start, senior and right side hitter Madeleine Riggs recognizes that there are some areas for improvement. “[We] could improve on closing out matches and having a strong finish,” said Riggs.

This is something that hurt the team on Sept. 14 in their game against New Trier. They split the first two games and lost an 11-2 lead in the last game, a heartbreaking loss for the Hawks.

However, the girls are looking forward to their upcoming match, ready to build on all of the wins they had previously.

“Our goal is to do super well in conference and possibly achieve a high rank as well,” senior outside/right-side hitter Michelle Luszczewski said. Their secret to success seems to be their optimism.

“Something that is working really well for us this season is the positive mindset we continue to have at all times,” Luszczewski said. "Even when playing against a hard team, we always tend to stay super optimistic, which

PHOTO BY GRACE BECKMAN

T

EYES ON THE PRIZE

Freshman Kat Milodenovic and seniors Aiden Lefler and Daria Ruchala (left to right) wait to receive a serve.

The girls' bonding off the court helps them work dynamically on the court.

makes playing so much better. No matter what situation we’re in, we continue to cheer each other on and try our hardest.”

Freshman and outside right-side

PHOTO BY GRACE BECKMAN

BLOCK PARTY

Seniors Elizabeth Ryser and Madeleine Riggs block a spike against New Trier on Sept. 14. The team ultimately lost the tight match to the Trevians in the third set.

hitter Sofia Rossi agrees that positivity is helping the team.

“We gel so well together as a team, even off the court,” Rossi said. “When playing a sport, if the players can’t connect well, the season might end up completely different.”

Another key to success is the team's inclusivity and teamwork.

“Thankfully for us, everyone is very inclusive and helpful towards each other,” Rossi said. “If we see each other throughout the halls of Maine South, we will always say ‘hi.’ We even will do a quick stop at Starbucks as a team sometimes.”

In addition to Starbucks outings, the team has valued the normalcy of this season.

“The return of a normal season has brought back some of our most cherished traditions, including laughing and bonding on bus rides, as well as the beloved pasta parties,” Riggs said.

“These traditions help bring us all closer as a team."

Rossi further emphasizes the importance of friendship.

“By maintaining a friendship, we do better when playing out on the court,” said Rossi.

Being the only freshman on the varsity team, Rossi appreciates her older teammates.

“It can definitely be challenging sometimes, but overall it’s an amazing experience,” Rossi said. "All of the upperclassmen on the team are so supportive and could not be better teammates.”

Rossi explains how grateful she is to be given the opportunity to play on the Varsity team.

“Playing on varsity as a freshman only gives me the ability to get better,” Rossi said. “From the beginning of the season to now, I have definitely seen major improvements in my volleyball skills.”

The team will compete against New Trier on Oct. 4, and they are very optimistic about this match.

“We are ready to give it our all,” Luszczewski said. “[There are] many more wins on the horizon,” Riggs said.